If you've been driving for a while, you've probably noticed that tires don't last forever. In fact, they can wear down in a variety of ways - some of which are more concerning than others. Here's a quick rundown of the different types of tire wear and what they might indicate:
1. Cupping: Cupped tires typically have small, raised sections that look like cups or scoops. This type of wear is usually caused by suspension problems or improper tire inflation. If you notice cupping on your tires, it's a good idea to have your vehicle checked out by a qualified mechanic.
2. Scalloped: Scalloped tires have raised sections that look like waves on the rubber. This type of wear is commonly caused by low air pressure in your tires, which causes them to get too hot and wear down unevenly. If you notice scalloped tire wear, check your tire pressure and have a mechanic take a look at your vehicle if it persists.
3. Inner-edge Wear: Inner-edge wear appears on the inner edges of your tires and is caused by alignment problems. To correct this type of wear, have your vehicle's alignment checked out by a qualified mechanic.
4. Outer-edge Wear: Outer-edge wear happens on the outer edges of your tires and is usually caused by overinflated or underinflated tires. If you notice this type of wear, check your tire pressure and adjust it as needed.
5. Center Wear: Center wear appears in the center of your tires and is caused by improper wheel alignment. If you notice this type of wear, have your vehicle's alignment checked by a qualified mechanic.
6. Bald Spots: Bald spots are areas of your tire that have no tread left. This type of wear can be caused by a number of factors, including improper inflation, overloading, and excessive braking. If you notice bald spots on your tires, have them replaced as soon as possible.
If you need assistance with tires, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Fox Run Auto Inc.! We'll be happy to inspect your tires and make any necessary repairs to get you safely back on the road.